Westlake is providing 3D laser scanning of an important vessel responsible for maintaining our marine highway – the Dredge Oregon. Built in 1965, the cutter section dredge plays a vital role in maintaining the Columbia River channel depth of 43 feet. As a trade dependent state, a well-maintained channel is extremely important as it allows cargo ships to travel safely between the Pacific and Portland.

In 2020, the Port of Portland will be making modifications to the dredge’s hull. Westlake is performing 3D scanning to help support these changes. Scanning is unique in that it has the ability to capture complex hull shapes, aiding in design and prefabrication, while providing time and cost savings. As part of this project, the stern of the barge will be removed and replaced with a larger section. 3D Scanning Specialist Jerry Dawson says, “The stern will need to match the existing hull as accurately as possible and our scanning data will provide those measurements.” Additional adjustments will be made to the discharge pipes attached to the stern as well as the interior.

While dredging is necessary to ensure a healthy trade economy, maintaining a healthy river ecology and environment is equally as important. In recent years, the Port of Portland replaced three diesel engines on the aging dredge, reducing emissions by nearly 88 percent.